Tribune pro football reporter Don Pierson analyzes the draft

April 22, 2002

Marc Colombo needs to start immediately, a la Jimbo Covert in 1983. Terrence Metcalf could push. Key to their draft is Alex Brown, who will learn he can't loaf at this level. Roosevelt Williams and Bobby Gray are needed as backups. Gray is a big hitter. Adrian Peterson tore up defenses at his level. Bryan Knight could help on special teams.

Pittsburgh Steelers

In Kendall Simmons and Antwaan Randle El, the Steelers got two good football players, neither spectacular but both solid in typical Steeler tradition. Neither is expected to start right away, but both probably will eventually. Randle El is Slash Jr., able to back up Kordell Stewart at quarterback while starring as a return man and backup receiver.

St. Louis Rams

For two years now, Mike Martz has resisted taking more offensive players early in the draft. Robert Thomas will push ex-Tampa Bay pickup Jamie Duncan to replace departed London Fletcher at middle linebacker. Heisman Trophy quarterback Eric Crouch gets to line up as a receiver in explosive offense.

Washington Redskins

Patrick Ramsey looks like an instant starter for Steve Spurrier, who surprisingly managed to stay away from Florida players. Gators fans won't like Tennessee picks. Owner Daniel Snyder tried to trade up for fast receiver Stallworth, but Ramsey should turn out to be a more valuable pick. Addition of free-agent linebacker Trotter was big.

Miami Dolphins

Saints running back Ricky Williams was their draft, just like he was in New Orleans three years ago. Seth McKinney is brother of former Colt and now Texan Steve McKinney. Dave Wannstedt hopes Northwestern's Sam Simmons surprises the way Wisconsin's Chris Chambers did last year.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The acquisition of coach Jon Gruden cost the Bucs their first two picks, a steep price and a large burden for Tony Dungy's successor. Marquise Walker is a good third-round pick because of great size. Marginal speed kept productive player from going higher.Tribune pro football reporter Don Pierson analyzes the draft